Kombucha maker seeks public’s help to rename drink

(AP) A Virginia kombucha maker that has to rename its drink because of a trademark infringement lawsuit is asking for the public’s help.

Afton-based company Conscious Cultures was sued by E. & J. Gallo Winery over the name of its kombucha drink “Barefoot Bucha.” Gallo uses the “Barefoot” name for its wine, spritzers and sparkling wine and argued that Conscious Cultures’ use of the name was confusing.

The companies reached a settlement and Conscious Cultures agreed to change the name of its kombucha.

The Richmond-Times Dispatch reports that Conscious Cultures is now hosting a contest to find a new name and logo. The contest will run through Sept. 12 and is limited to residents in Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C, which is where the drink is sold.